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2021 GMC Sierra 1500: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 change is expanded trailering technology, joined by wider standard use of the MultiPro tailgate. Otherwise, this is a light update of the 2020 truck rather than a redesign.
About the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500
4th generation Sierra 1500, third model year (2019-2021 pre-refresh period), immediately before the major 2022 interior and exterior refresh.
GMC positions the Sierra 1500 as a more upscale full-size pickup built around its “Professional Grade” identity. For most shoppers, that means Silverado-like truck capability with more emphasis on distinctive trim personalities: a work-first base truck, a sport-styled Elevation, an off-road AT4, and the luxury-focused Denali. Key differentiators are GMC’s MultiPro tailgate, strong towing technology, and a lineup that moves from basic utility to near-luxury without leaving the same model range.
The lineup runs from the work-focused base truck and everyday SLE to the dark-trimmed Elevation and leather-equipped SLT. AT4 is the off-road model, with standard 4WD, a two-speed transfer case, skid plates, and a 2-inch factory lift. Denali is the luxury-focused version, featuring adaptive suspension, Bose audio, ventilated front seats, and built-in navigation.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Towing capacity increased in key configurations using the 2.7-liter turbo gas engine and 3.0-liter Duramax diesel. The engine lineup itself was not redesigned.
Tech
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability joined the range. Trailer-assistance technology also expanded with new camera views and guidance features for compatible trailers.
Trim equipment
The MultiPro tailgate became standard on SLE and Elevation, and the X31 off-road package spread to more trims. SLE and Elevation also made dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power driver’s seat standard; SLE additionally made remote start and an alarm system standard.
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 6.2 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 5.3 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.7 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 5.3 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 6.2 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 5.3 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.7 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter / V6, EcoTec3, 4.3 Liter | V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 5.3 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 6.2 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.7 Liter / 6-Cyl, Turbo Diesel, 3.0 Liter / V8, EcoTec3, DFM, 5.3 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 6-Spd HD w/Overdrive | Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 8-Spd w/Overdrive / Automatic, 10-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD | 4WD / 2WD |
| Fuel Type | Diesel / Gas | Gas / Diesel | Diesel / Gas | Gas | Gas / Diesel | Gas / Diesel |
| MPG City | 15–22 mpg | 14–23 mpg | 16–23 mpg | 14–20 mpg | 16–23 mpg | 14–23 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 19–26 mpg | 20–30 mpg | 20–30 mpg | 20–23 mpg | 20–30 mpg | 20–30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 277–420 hp | 277–355 hp | 277–420 hp | 285–355 hp | 277–420 hp | 277–355 hp |
| Torque | 383–460 lb-ft | 348–460 lb-ft | 383–460 lb-ft | 305–383 lb-ft | 383–460 lb-ft | 348–460 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 9100–9200 lb | 10900–11000 lb | 11700–11800 lb | 9400–9900 lb | 9100–9200 lb | 10900–11000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 71.7 cu-ft | 71.7 cu-ft | 71.7 cu-ft | |||
| Rear Legroom | 43.4 in | 35.2–43.4 in | 43.4 in | 35.2–43.4 in | 43.4 in | 35.2–43.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 6 | 6 | 3–6 | 5 | 6 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 2–4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||||
| Alarm System | ||||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | ||||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||||
| Cruise Control | ||||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||||
| Park Assist | ||||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||||
| 360 Camera | ||||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||||
| Fog Lights | ||||||
| HID Headlights | ||||||
| Heated Mirrors | ||||||
| LED Headlights | ||||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||||
| Power Mirrors | ||||||
| Privacy Glass | ||||||
| Side Steps | ||||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||||
| Trailer Hitch Receiver | ||||||
| Bluetooth | ||||||
| Head-Up Display | ||||||
| Navigation System | ||||||
| Premium Audio | ||||||
| SD Card Slot | ||||||
| Satellite Radio | ||||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||||
| Subwoofer | ||||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | ||||||
| USB Ports | ||||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | ||||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||||
| Leather Seats | ||||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||||
| Remote Start | ||||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | ||||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||||
Frequently asked questions
Was the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 redesigned?
No. The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 remained part of the fourth generation introduced for 2019 and received a light equipment and technology update rather than a full redesign.
What is the biggest difference between the 2021 and 2020 GMC Sierra 1500?
Expanded trailering technology is the biggest difference. The 2021 Sierra gained more trailer-focused camera and guidance features, while wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability and broader standard use of the MultiPro tailgate rounded out the update.
Does the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability joined the 2021 Sierra 1500 range, although exact equipment varies by trim and individual truck.
What changed about the MultiPro tailgate for the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?
The MultiPro tailgate became standard equipment on the SLE and Elevation trims for 2021. It was also a key feature of upper trims such as SLT and AT4.
What equipment became standard on the 2021 Sierra SLE and Elevation?
Both SLE and Elevation made dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power driver’s seat standard for 2021. SLE also made remote start and an alarm system standard.
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500.
4.1
2021 GMC Sierra 1500
(309 reviews)
“There are 2 channels in the hood. These hold water after a rain and splash the windshield when slowing to a certain speed. It was scary the first time it happened. Now I know to expect it.”
“brand name, styling, reliability, comfort, 3.0 liter diesel is fuel efficient and fun to drive”